The Gemological Institute of America Museum has rolled out the red carpet for Beverly Hills designer, Ricardo Basta’s bejeweled brooches that are currently on exhibit at the Institute’s headquarters in Carlsbad, Calif.

The brooch collection is a range of eclectic and exquisite pieces that are based on natural themes such as plants and animals. The popular 18k yellow gold “Dragon brooch” (pictured) contains accents of platinum that are embellished with diamonds and hand engraving; fire opal hand carved to emulate the flames of a fire breathing dragon. The demantoid green garnet eye is grooved across the top and then inlaid with an onyx pupil; hand carved mother of pearl chest and elephant hair whiskers.

Basta, considered one of the premiere jewelry designers in Hollywood, has had his jewelry creations worn by celebrities such as Stockard Channing, Gladys Knight, and Vanessa Minnillo. Basta’s work has also been in W Magazine, Inside Weddings, The Robb Report, and featured exclusively on all the contestants in the ad campaign for the Fox television hit, America’s Next Top Model.

Basta has been honored with numerous awards for his cutting-edge and trend setting designs, including; American Gem Trade Association’s Spectrum Awards that honor America’s hottest jewelry designers and the prestigious MJSA Award.

Basta’s collection will be on display until March 2008.

Museum exhibit viewings are free and available to the public through scheduled tours. RSVP is required. To sign up for a tour, e-mail guestservicesmailbox@gia.edu or call (800) 421-7250, ext. 4116. Outside of the U.S., call (760) 603-4116.

JCK